So, What Should I Watch? Choice Overload among SVOD Users

In a post-digital revolution media landscape, viewers' consumption habits have been drastically influenced by content overabundance, which acts as both a source of attractiveness and a cause of decision fatigue. This work analyzes the choice overload phenomenon in the context of subscription video on demand (SVOD) services. The aim of this quantitative study is to verify the applicability of Barry Schwartz's theories to the peculiar character of the streaming service industry, taking into account its multi-level overcrowding and the hedonic connotation of its products. Moreover, a series of mitigating factors pointed out by the literature is tested to identify some coping mechanisms with choice overload effects on the user's side. Finally, a series of alternative recommendation systems are listed to spark the conversation on the topic of content discovery innovation.